countyscore
47.4
County Score
Disaster Risk 91.1Schools 69.7Income & Jobs 47.8

County Report Card

About Delta County, Texas

Delta County nears the national median

Delta County earns a 47.3 composite score, placing it just shy of the national median of 50.0. This score indicates a balanced quality of life relative to the rest of the country.

Outperforming the Texas state average

Delta County is a strong performer in Texas, with its 47.3 score exceeding the state average of 41.9. It stands out as a more livable option than many of its more urban neighbors.

Low environmental risk and strong schools

The county shines with a risk score of 91.1 and a school score of 69.7. Its low effective tax rate of 0.975% provides significant financial relief to homeowners.

Water infrastructure and health access lag

The water score is a low 15.3, indicating potential concerns with utility quality or access. Health scores also remain modest at 32.6, suggesting room for improvement in medical services.

A great fit for safety-seeking families

Delta County is perfect for families prioritizing safety and good schools in a low-tax environment. The $149,400 median home value makes it an accessible choice for middle-income earners.

Score breakdown

Tax40.1Cost44.8Safety47Health32.6Schools69.7Income47.8Risk91.1Water15.3Weather38
🏛40.1
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠44.8
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼47.8
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡47
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤32.6
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓69.7
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡91.1
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧15.3
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤38
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱43
Lawn Care
Lawn difficulty score based on climate, soil, and grass suitability
LawnByCounty →
🛒
Farmers Markets
Local market density, SNAP/EBT acceptance, and product variety
MarketsByCounty →
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Nearby counties

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Texas
45.9
Lamar County
Texas
36.5
Franklin County
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44
Fannin County
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Deep Dives

Delta County across the ByCounty Network

Detailed analysis from 9 data dimensions — each powered by a dedicated ByCounty site.

Property Tax in Delta County

via TaxByCounty

Delta's low rate puts it in lowest 15%

Delta County's 0.98% effective tax rate is just 13% above the national median of 0.87%, making it among the most tax-friendly counties nationwide. The median property tax of $1,456 is roughly half the national median of $2,690, even for homes worth $149,400.

Among Texas's lowest-taxing counties

Delta County ranks in the bottom quarter of Texas counties by effective tax rate at 0.98%, substantially below the state average of 1.28%. Homeowners pay $1,456 in median taxes—34% less than the statewide median of $2,193.

One of North Texas's best tax deals

Among nearby counties, Delta (0.98%) undercuts Dallas (1.68%), Denton (1.72%), and most regional competitors. Only a handful of rural Northeast Texas counties rival Delta's tax efficiency.

Median home costs just $1,456 yearly

A Delta County home valued at $149,400 generates only $1,456 in annual property taxes at the 0.98% rate. This favorable burden reflects the county's lean municipal structure and agricultural-based economy.

Even low assessments can be appealed

Even in tax-friendly counties like Delta, some homeowners face overassessed properties, particularly recent home sales or renovations. A free appraisal review from Delta County's appraisal district could confirm your home's fair market value and prevent overpaying.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Delta County

via CostByCounty

Delta County: Texas's most affordable

Delta County boasts a rent-to-income ratio of just 16.4%—among the nation's lowest and significantly better than the national norm. With a median household income of $62,855 and median rent of just $857, this North Texas county delivers genuine affordability.

State leader in housing affordability

Delta County ranks as one of Texas's most affordable counties with a 16.4% rent-to-income ratio, well below the state average of 18.1%. Its median rent of $857 and median income of $62,855 create a favorable balance rarely found in competitive state markets.

Rural advantage over urban peers

Delta County's $857 median rent and 16.4% affordability ratio dramatically outpace Dallas County ($1,469 rent, 23.8% ratio) and even edge out most other rural Texas counties. The county's median home value of $149,400 sits between affordable Dawson ($90,800) and pricier urban markets.

Renters and owners both win here

Delta County renters spend $857 monthly while homeowners pay $907—both among Texas's lowest figures. On a median income of $62,855, housing consumes just 16.4% for renters and roughly 17% for owners, providing substantial buffer for other expenses.

Delta County: affordability destination

If maximum housing security on modest income drives your move, Delta County delivers: 16.4% rent-to-income ratio and sub-$900 monthly rents. You'll sacrifice proximity to major metros but gain the state's most favorable cost-of-living ratio.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Delta County

via IncomeByCounty

Delta approaches national income

Delta County's median household income of $62,855 falls 15.9% short of the national median of $74,755, though it performs better than many rural Texas peers. The county's per capita income of $31,640 sits below the national average but reflects a more balanced regional economy.

Slightly below Texas average

Delta County's median household income of $62,855 trails the Texas state average of $64,737 by just 2.8%, placing it near the middle of Texas counties. Its per capita income of $31,640 nearly matches the state average of $33,197, suggesting relatively balanced economic distribution.

Outearns rural Northeast Texas

Delta County outpaces neighboring rural counties like Morris and Cass, benefiting from proximity to larger employment centers and more diversified local business. The county's income advantage reflects a mix of agricultural, manufacturing, and service-sector employment.

Housing remains very affordable

At 16.4%, Delta County's rent-to-income ratio ranks among the healthiest in the state, well below the 20% threshold for affordable housing. A median home value of $149,400 makes homeownership accessible to median-earning households, supporting wealth accumulation.

Leverage affordable housing equity

Delta County's affordable housing creates an excellent opportunity for residents to build home equity and wealth through homeownership without overextending finances. Reinvesting savings from lower housing costs into retirement accounts or home improvements multiplies long-term wealth gains.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Delta County

via CrimeByCounty

Delta County Boasts Superior Safety

Delta County is one of the safest regions in the country, with a total crime rate of 1,193.6 per 100,000 residents. This rate is nearly half of the national average of 2,385.5, earning the county an impressive safety score of 98.1. For residents, this translates to a very high level of daily peace of mind.

A Top Performer in Texas Safety

With a safety score of 98.1, Delta County far exceeds the Texas average score of 96.8. Its total crime rate of 1,193.6 is significantly better than the state average of 2,052.5. Local law enforcement agencies maintain a secure environment that stands out on the Texas map.

Safe Haven Compared to Regional Centers

Delta County’s crime rate of 1,193.6 is exceptionally low compared to the 4,397.7 seen in nearby Denton County. Even when compared to Dallas County's 1,314.8, Delta remains the safer choice. These numbers reflect a quiet, secure community with minimal criminal activity.

Property Crime Remains the Main Concern

Violent crime is low at 246.3 per 100,000, which is well below the national average of 369.8. Property crime is also minimal, sitting at 947.3 per 100,000 residents. Most reported incidents in Delta County involve minor property disputes or non-violent thefts.

Simple Steps to Stay Safe

While Delta County is extremely safe, basic property maintenance like locking doors and garages is always recommended. Because theft remains the most likely issue, visible security signs can discourage the few opportunistic criminals in the area. Enjoy the security of Delta County while staying reasonably vigilant.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Delta County

via HealthByCounty

Delta County's life expectancy lags nation

At 72.0 years, Delta County residents live 2.3 years less than the U.S. average of 74.3 years—a gap that persists despite relatively low rates of poor/fair health at 18.0%. This suggests that while current residents report decent health, Delta faces structural barriers that shorten lifespans overall.

Below Texas average but better relative health

Delta County's 72.0-year life expectancy falls below Texas's 74.3-year average, yet its 18.0% poor/fair health rate stands below the state average, indicating a population that reports good health today but faces mortality risks. The county's uninsured rate of 13.7% is notably lower than Texas's 19.8%, suggesting better insurance access in this rural area.

Healthier outlook than similar rural peers

Delta County's 72.0-year life expectancy exceeds Dimmit (71.0 years) and Dawson (70.7 years), and its 13.7% uninsured rate is the lowest among peer counties. However, Delta's primary care provider data is unavailable, suggesting potential data gaps in this rural North Texas county.

Mental health capacity but limited primary care

Delta County's 54 mental health providers per 100,000 residents represent solid mental health capacity, yet primary care provider numbers remain unreported, indicating possible access challenges. The county's 13.7% uninsured rate is a bright spot, though even uninsured residents may struggle to find primary care in this rural setting.

Maintain coverage despite low uninsured rate

Delta County's 13.7% uninsured rate—the lowest among these eight counties—shows that coverage is achievable here; those without insurance should explore marketplace plans at healthcare.gov. Staying covered protects against the unexpected costs that can derail rural economies and shorten lives.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Delta County

via SchoolsByCounty

Small Schools, Big Results

Delta County features a small but efficient system of four public schools serving 971 total students. These schools are managed by two districts and include two elementary campuses, one middle school, and one high school.

Exceptional Graduation and Performance

The county achieves a stellar 97% graduation rate, significantly higher than the 91.6% state average. Per-pupil spending stands at $7,149, while the school score of 57.5 exceeds the Texas average of 55.3.

Cooper ISD Serves the Community

Cooper ISD is the largest district, enrolling 888 students across its three campuses, while Fannindel ISD serves a smaller cohort of 147. There are no charter schools in the county, maintaining a focus on traditional district-led education.

A Purely Rural School Setting

All four schools in Delta County are classified as rural, offering an average enrollment of just 243 students. Cooper Elementary is the largest campus with 467 students, while Fannindel Elementary offers a very intimate 83-student environment.

Rural Living with High Standards

Delta County is a hidden gem for families prioritizing high graduation rates and small school environments. Explore homes in Cooper or the surrounding rural areas to benefit from this top-performing educational system.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Delta County

via RiskByCounty

Delta County is among safest in nation

Delta County's composite risk score of 8.91 ranks as "Very Low," placing it well below the national average and in the safest percentile of American counties. This Northeast Texas county experiences minimal exposure to major natural disasters.

Texas's safest county profile

At 8.91, Delta County scores dramatically below the Texas state average of 49.00, making it one of the state's lowest-risk jurisdictions. Geographic isolation and low population density contribute to reduced overall disaster exposure.

Safest in its regional peer group

Delta County's 8.91 score far outpaces nearby counties; even low-risk Dickens County (13.61) and Dimmit County (35.88) exceed its risk level. This relative safety reflects the county's rural character and distance from major hazard zones.

All risks remain well below average

Delta County's highest individual hazard is tornado risk at 49.30, followed by hurricane risk at 41.39, both near or below national norms. Flood, wildfire, and earthquake risks all score below 25, indicating minimal exposure across the full spectrum.

Standard coverage generally sufficient

Standard homeowners insurance provides adequate protection for Delta County residents, as flood and earthquake risks are negligible. Maintaining basic tornado preparedness—identifying a safe interior room and reviewing escape routes—remains prudent despite low overall risk.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Soil Quality in Delta County

via SoilByCounty

A unique soil mystery in North Texas

While specific pH and taxonomic data are limited for Delta County, it sits within a region typically known for heavy clay and loamy soils. Local growers usually encounter the blackland prairie characteristics common to the surrounding areas.

Limited texture data for specific analysis

Quantitative data for sand, silt, and clay percentages are currently unavailable for this county. However, historical agricultural success in the area suggests a mix that supports both row crops and pasture land.

Potential for high agricultural productivity

Data regarding organic matter and available water capacity are not specified in recent surveys. Despite the missing numbers, the county maintains a tradition of productive farming and ranching across its rural landscape.

Management through traditional drainage methods

Official drainage class and hydrologic group data are not recorded in this dataset. Local land management often relies on historic knowledge of how these North Texas soils move water during seasonal floods.

Abundant rainfall and long Zone 8b seasons

Delta County enjoys a long growing season in USDA Zone 8b. You can grow a wide variety of vegetables and fruits; just be sure to test your specific plot's soil to fill in the data gaps for your garden.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Delta County

via LawnByCounty

Wet Climate, Tough Challenges

Delta County scores a 43.0 on the lawn difficulty scale, placing it above the state average of 31.7 but below the national midpoint. This hardiness zone 8b region benefits from high rainfall but currently faces significant environmental stress. Achieving a perfect lawn here requires balancing the generous precipitation with extreme drought episodes.

Abundant Rain but Intense Summer Sun

At 47.9 inches per year, Delta County receives some of the highest precipitation in the state, sitting at the top of the ideal range for grass growth. However, 92 days of extreme heat still pose a risk for turf dehydration during the summer months. Gardeners should plan for high-growth periods punctuated by sudden heat stress.

Understanding Local Soil Needs

While specific soil composition data for Delta County is limited, nearby regions suggest a mix of clay and loam that requires regular aeration. Homeowners should conduct a local soil test to determine their specific pH levels and nutrient needs before planting. Proper drainage is especially important given the county's high annual rainfall.

Severe Drought Hits Hard

Despite high rainfall averages, the county is currently 100% under severe D2+ drought conditions and has seen 19 weeks of drought this year. This highlights the erratic nature of Texas weather, where floods often follow periods of extreme dryness. Implementing a rainwater harvesting system can help sustain your lawn during these harsh severe drought spells.

Maximize the Growing Potential

In zone 8b, warm-season grasses like St. Augustine and Bermuda are the most reliable choices for the local climate. While local frost dates are variable, most planting occurs in the mid-spring when soil temperatures consistently rise. Leverage the natural high rainfall of the region to help your lawn establish deep, resilient roots.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Delta County's county score?
Delta County, Texas has a composite county score of 47.4 out of 100 on CountyScore. This score is calculated from a weighted average of available data dimensions including property tax, cost of living, income, safety, health, and schools.
How does Delta County rank among counties in Texas?
Delta County ranks #84 among all counties in Texas on CountyScore's composite ranking. Rankings are based on available data dimensions and updated as new data is added.
What are property taxes like in Delta County, Texas?
The median annual property tax in Delta County is $1,456, with an effective tax rate of 0.97%. This earns Delta County a tax score of 40.1/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Delta County?
The median household income in Delta County, Texas is $62,855 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Delta County earns an income score of 47.8/100 on CountyScore.
Is Delta County, Texas a good place to live?
Delta County scores 47.4/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #84 in Texas. The best way to evaluate Delta County is to compare individual dimension scores — property tax, cost of living, income, safety, health, and schools — based on your personal priorities. Use CountyScore to compare Delta County with other counties side by side.

ByCounty Network

🏛Property Tax🏠Cost of Living💼Income & Jobs🛡Safety❤Health🎓Schools⚡Disaster Risk💧Water Quality🌤Weather & Climate🪨Soil Quality🌱Lawn Care🛒Farmers Markets

Data from U.S. Census Bureau ACS, FBI UCR, CDC, FEMA NRI, NCES, EPA SDWIS, NOAA — informational only.